These tuna burgers are a delightful twist on the classic burger, offering a lighter and healthier alternative. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch, these patties are packed with flavor and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry. However, if you don't usually keep breadcrumbs or mayonnaise on hand, you might need to pick these up at the supermarket. Additionally, make sure you have canned tuna and lemon juice available, as they are essential for the flavor and texture of the burgers.
Ingredients for Tuna Burgers Recipe
Tuna: Provides the main protein and flavor base for the burgers.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture together and adds texture.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.
Onion: Adds a bit of crunch and flavor to the patties.
Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness to the mixture.
Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, tangy flavor that complements the tuna.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the patties.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the flavor.
Olive oil: Used for frying the patties to a golden brown.
Technique Tip for Making Tuna Burgers
To ensure your tuna burgers hold together well, make sure to finely chop the onion and thoroughly drain the tuna. This will help the breadcrumbs and egg bind the mixture more effectively, resulting in a firm and cohesive patty.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
2 cans drained tuna - Substitute with canned salmon: Provides a similar texture and flavor profile, while offering a different type of fish.
1 cup breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Adds a similar binding and texture to the mixture.
1 beaten egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Acts as a vegan binder, providing similar consistency.
¼ cup finely chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Offers a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.
2 tablespoon mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Provides a creamy texture with fewer calories and added protein.
1 teaspoon lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Offers a similar acidic brightness to the dish.
½ teaspoon salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Adds a salty flavor with an umami boost.
¼ teaspoon black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: Provides a similar spiciness with a slightly different flavor profile.
2 tablespoon for frying olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, suitable for frying.
Alternative Recipes Similar to Tuna Burgers
How to Store or Freeze Your Tuna Burgers
- Allow the tuna burgers to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
- Place the cooled tuna burgers in an airtight container. If stacking, separate each patty with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
- To freeze, wrap each tuna burger individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they maintain their shape and prevents freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped tuna burgers in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat the tuna burgers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
- For a quick option, you can also microwave the tuna burgers on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tuna burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy texture of the patties.
Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the tuna burgers in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through. This method keeps the patties moist and flavorful.
Microwave Method: Place the tuna burgers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the patties dry.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tuna burgers in the basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tuna burgers on the toaster oven tray. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is convenient and effective for small batches.
Essential Tools for Making Tuna Burgers
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
Fork: Useful for flaking the tuna and mixing the ingredients together.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the breadcrumbs and mayonnaise.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
Knife: Used for finely chopping the onion.
Cutting board: A surface for chopping the onion.
Frying pan: Used to cook the patties.
Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties in the frying pan.
Plate: To place the shaped patties before frying and to serve the cooked patties.
Paper towels: Useful for draining excess oil from the cooked patties.
How to Save Time on Making Tuna Burgers
Prepare ingredients in advance: Drain and chop tuna and onion ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Quickly combine tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, and other ingredients in a food processor for a uniform mixture.
Preheat the pan: Heat the olive oil while shaping the patties to save time.
Make extra patties: Double the recipe and freeze uncooked patties for a quick meal later.
Use pre-made breadcrumbs: Save time by using store-bought breadcrumbs instead of making your own.

Tuna Burgers Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans Tuna drained
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 Egg beaten
- ¼ cup Onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoon Mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil for frying
Instructions
- 1. In a mixing bowl, combine tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- 2. Shape the mixture into 4 patties.
- 3. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- 4. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- 5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings and buns.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
More Amazing Recipes to Try 🙂
- Instant Pot Chicken Breast Recipe30 Minutes
- Vietnamese Iced Coffee Recipe10 Minutes
- Hash Browns Recipe30 Minutes
- Whipped Cream Recipe10 Minutes
- Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe8 Hours 15 Minutes
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe45 Minutes
- Beanie Weenie Recipe30 Minutes
- Manhattan Cocktail Recipe5 Minutes

Leave a Reply